Al Ahli are in advanced talks to sign right-back Rady Al Otaibi from Al Ettifaq in the current summer transfer window, after rivals Al Hilal previously failed to secure his signature.
Saudi journalist Khaled Al Zahrani reported that Al Ahli have opened formal negotiations with Al Ettifaq over a deal for the 26-year-old defender, who has emerged as one of the leading right-backs in Saudi football.
Contract situation could force Ettifaq sale
According to Al Zahrani, Al Otaibi’s contract with Al Ettifaq runs until the end of next season, a situation which could push the Dammam club – known as “Faris Ad-Dahna” – to consider a sale now rather than risk losing him on a free transfer.
Al Ettifaq only signed Al Otaibi in the summer of 2023, but his contractual status is understood to be a key factor in their willingness to listen to offers during this window.
Al Ahli’s move comes after Al Hilal, their long-standing domestic rivals, attempted to recruit Al Otaibi in the winter transfer window as a replacement for Portugal international Joao Cancelo. That approach did not materialise into a transfer, leaving Al Hilal without the cover they had sought on the right side of defence.
Rise of a leading Saudi right-back
Al Otaibi has built a strong reputation over the past few seasons. He began his senior career at Al Wehda, where he was promoted to the first team in 2019.
He left Al Wehda the following season to join Ohod, before moving on to Al Hazem. During his time with Al Hazem he was loaned to Al Qadsiah, and after that spell he completed a permanent move to Al Ettifaq ahead of the 2023-24 campaign.
Over the last three seasons he has established himself as a regular starter, and he reached his peak form in the most recent campaign. Al Otaibi made 25 appearances last season for Al Ettifaq, contributing three assists from right-back and cementing his status as a key figure in the team.
His consistency and attacking output from defence have helped place him among the standout Saudi players in his position, attracting interest from clubs at the top end of the Saudi Pro League.
Questions over Al Ahli role
Al Ahli already have two recognised right-backs in their squad: Ali Majrashi and Mohammed Abdulrahman. That existing depth means there is some uncertainty over how Al Otaibi would be used if the deal goes through, and whether his arrival would trigger further changes in the defensive unit.
No details have yet emerged on the potential transfer fee or contract terms being discussed, and neither club has issued an official statement on the negotiations.
However, with Al Otaibi entering the final year of his deal at Al Ettifaq and Al Ahli keen to strengthen before the new season, both sides are expected to continue talks as the summer window progresses.
